Russia is developing missiles designed to avoid being hit by space-based missile defence systems that could be deployed by the United States, a top Russian general was quoted as saying Monday.

“Development is now under way on the combat outfitting of missiles whose flight falls outside the range of space-based missile defence systems,” Nikolai Solovtsov, the commander of Russia’s missile forces, told Interfax news agency.

Solovtsov called the project a countermeasure to what he described as US plans to deploy weapons in space, according to Interfax.

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“Judging by an analysis of US work in new weapons development and creation, they truly see space as a potential sphere for armed conflict and in connection with this are not withdrawing from plans to place weapons in space,” he said.

He also said Russia was “perfecting the structure and makeup” of its missile forces in response to a planned US land-based missile shield, a controversial project that has provoked furious reactions from Moscow.

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Solvtsov said the steps would include deployment of RS-24 intercontinental missiles, designed to overcome systems such as the US missile shield.